Age is not an insurmountable obstacle to achieving our aspirations, as evidenced by the journey of Lucio Chiquito Caicedo, a Colombian civil engineer who, at the age of 104, completed his doctoral thesis.
Lucio Chiquito Caicedo embodies an inspiring example of perseverance. A scholarship recipient at Manchester in 1943, he submitted his doctoral thesis at the venerable age of 104, still at the same institution.
His three-decade journey to find a solution to a complex engineering problem culminated in an innovative mathematical formula for calculating the optimal flow rate of a river, thus promoting sustainable hydroelectric power generation.
« Let us make the most of the time given to us, for it does not renew itself. If studies were challenging in the past, technology now makes them more accessible. I wish the best to those who embark on this demanding path, » he shared.
Lucio Chiquito Caicedo unveiled a groundbreaking mathematical formula aimed at optimizing river flow, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable hydroelectric power production, a long-standing challenge in the field. His thesis represents years of intensive research, providing a long-awaited solution to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of hydroelectric production.
Born in Cali, Colombia, on May 22, 1916, Lucio obtained his degree in civil engineering from the School of Mines at the National University of Colombia. After further studies in the United Kingdom at the Institute of Science and Technology at Victoria University of Manchester, where he graduated in 1947, he subsequently joined the School of Engineering in Antioquia, Colombia, founded two companies, advocated for gender equality, and eventually presented his doctoral thesis.
The pursuit of our dreams remains essential. Persevering in the fulfillment of our aspirations is crucial to our fulfillment. Achieving our goals requires effort and determination, despite the obstacles. These challenges strengthen our resilience and nourish our will.
